Latest news with #S.Mariappan
The Hindu
29-05-2025
- The Hindu
Two mango godowns locked and sealed near Rajapalayam
A mango godown at Mamsapuram in Virudhunagar district, which was found operating without Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) licence, was locked by Food Safety officials on Thursday. Another godown was sealed as the owner was not present to open it for inspection. A team of officials led by Virudhunagar District Food Safety Designated Officer S. Mariappan conducted inspection at the two godowns on Rajamani Nadar Street. The officials, including Food Safety Officer Veeramuthu and from the Labour Welfare Department, found that one of the godowns did not possess FSSAI licence. Besides, the godown had not used ethylene gas chamber, the permitted procedure for artificial ripening of mangoes. Instead, it was directly sprayed on the mangoes, which was against the established procedure for artificial ripening. The officials seized 890 kg of mangoes and samples were taken for analysis in the laboratory. Since the godown did not have licence, it was locked and the officials began an inquiry into the issue. Based on the outcome of the laboratory test, further action would be taken. When the officials went to the other godown, the owner did not turn up to facilitate inspection. The godown was sealed under the provisions of Food Safety and Standards Rules 2011. The order of closure was pasted on its door. After the godown owner appeared before the officials, it would be opened for inspection and samples would be lifted from the premises and further order would be issued to reopen it. Traders can use ethylene gas chambers to artificially ripen the mangoes or use ethylene cylinders for the purpose. A statement said traders involved in food business such as vegetables, fruits, mango godowns and temporary eateries should get licence/registration certificate under Food Safety and Standard Rules 2011 through Units operating without the license would be closed and cases would be booked under the provisions of Food Safety and Standards Act 2006. People can lodge complaints against quality of food over 94440-42322, State WhatsApp complaint number or over or using TN Food Safety app. The details of the complainant would be kept confidential.
The Hindu
05-05-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
FSSAI compliance stressed in Thoothukudi's new food safety drive
The Food Safety Department of Thoothukudi district has launched a public awareness campaign to ensure that consumers are informed about essential food safety guidelines before choosing an eatery. The initiative is based on the recommendations of the Department of Food Safety and Drug Administration. As part of the campaign, the department has directed consumers to verify whether the eateries are registered with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and check for display of FSSAI issued hygiene ratings, Food Safety Display Boards and Food Safety Training and Certification (FoSTaC) Certificate. To emphasise the basic requirements at eateries, the Food Safety Department has released an advertisement jingle on social media to spread awareness among the public. Speaking on the initiative, S. Mariappan, Designated Officer for Food Safety, Thoothukudi, said: 'As announced during the 2025-2026 Budget session, we are implementing the project. The department has also been planning for interpersonal communication with consumers in Thoothukudi, Kovilpatti and other parts of the district.' While people might notice the FSSAI certificate displayed at eateries, they often overlooked other crucial documents such as hygiene rating certificate and FoSTaC certification. 'These documents are equally important for identifying trusted and compliant food establishments,' he added. Another key element of the campaign was the mandatory display of Food Safety Display Boards that carried all essential information such as the shop's licence number and practices carried out in the eatery to maintain hygiene. To reinforce the requirement, the department was also planning a meeting with food business operators. Additionally, regular inspections and public outreach efforts were being carried out to align with the 'Eat Right Thoothukudi' mission. The department was also inspecting slaughterhouses and meat shops across the district to ensure food safety and public health, Mr. Mariappan said.
